What is sentimental comedy?

Sentimental comedy is a form of drama that surfaced after the English Restoration Comedy that triumphed middle-class values and validated moral lifestyle choices. It is often seen as pandering to the audience - rather than challenging their view of themselves, it just reinforces that the good, humble man will triumph over adversity. It comes about in the 18th century - the playwright Richard Steele is one of the first associated with it.